Leather and Shine | Pitaya’s Beaded Blouse

The holidays quite literally sparkle. And while I play perpetual cynic on a variety of occasions, the holidays are no mocking matter for me. Whether it is the shiny ribbon on the outside of a perfectly-wrapped present or the glisten of just-fallen snow, this time of year comes with a definite (practically blinding) shine, and I love every glitter-covered moment.

It only makes sense that so many holiday attire articles show sequin-riddled frocks or metallic knitwear; it’s simply the funnest way to be festive. And while the concept of a ‘going-out top’ never turned out to be as important as assumed during my under-aged years, I still like them quite a lot: They can go over a dress, under sweater, or atop a skirt to create the ideal look for any evening occasion. This beaded ensemble from Pitaya is a perfect example of the holiday blouse you need this season.

I gravitated to this top while shopping at the Delmar Loop Pitaya — after all, what’s more December-ready than gold beads? But as my datebook is more full with travel times and work obligations than cocktail parties and fireside soirees, it became instantly clear that I needed to style this top in a less-obvious fashion. Instead of grabbing a skirt and pumps, which you know would look great with it, I sought out some leather and metal.